Latest MLB mock draft predicts college outfielder to Reds with Competitive Balance pick

The Cincinnati Reds will make their first-round selection with the 7th-overall pick in the upcoming 2023 MLB Draft. Among the targets are rumored to be Chase Dollander, Rhett Lowder, and Kyle Teel.

But in addition to the Reds first-round selection, the team also possesses a Competiive Ballance pick at No. 38 before the second round even begins.

This will, in theory, allow Cincinnati to select two of the top 40 players in this year's draft as the Reds will be looking to reload the farm system after losing so much talent to the big leagues this season.

Latest mock draft predicts outfielder Jack Hurley to the Reds at No. 38.

Sporting News recently released their latest mock draft. The outlet predicted the aforementioned Rhett Lowder at pick No. 7, but went a bit deeper as well. At pick No. 38, with their Competitive Balance selection, the Reds are projected to select Jack Hurley from Virginia Tech.

Hurley, who MLB Pipeline mentions as a potential five-tool player, has plus-speed with the ability to stretch singles into doubles. For his career with the Hokies, Hurley slashed .321/.411/.603 with almost 200 career hits.

In 2023, Hurley remained consistent with both his batting average and on-base percentage, but was also able to raise his slugging percentage substantially. Of his 57 base knocks in 2023, 34 went for extra bases.

Jack Hurley has advanced bat-to-ball skills and doesn't swing and miss very often. Much like Lowder in Round 1, Hurley would be a rather safe pick for the Cincinnati Reds heading before Round 2 gets underway.

The Reds also have an early pick in Round 2 and will be selecting at No. 43. If the Reds play it safe with their first two picks, Cincinnati could select pick with a higher ceiling in the second round of the 2023 MLB Draft.